Law Enforcement

An increase in elephant and bushmeat poaching, agricultural pressure, livestock numbers along the park periphery are all factors that threaten the long-term conservation of the Pendjari and have been addressed by our overhauling of law enforcement. In 2019, Pendjari’s law enforcement team consisted of 111 employees, 100 of whom are rangers who conducted 13,240 patrols man-days, resulting in the arrest of 25 poachers and the confiscation of 464 kg of bushmeat and 653 kg of fish.

Ranger Training

Pendjari’s law enforcement team consists of 111 employees, 100 of whom are rangers.

In 2017, a Presidential Decree was announced for the creation of a Special Brigade for the protection of Pendjari. African Parks has recruited and trained rangers who are deployed throughout the Pendjari Complex to ensure the ecosystem and its wildlife are protected. Training includes the use of firearms, patrolling and tracking methods, navigation, data collection, communication, and first aid operations. In 2019, every ranger completed Basic Field Ranger Training (BFR) and advanced tracking and 20 team leaders also completed leadership and human rights training; and analysts and investigators from our Intelligence Unit underwent specialised training for investigations.

Improved Intelligence Systems

Implement improved intelligence systems in Pendjari, adapting from a reactive anti-poaching strategy to active counter-poaching strategy. This will prevent poaching activity from taking place by disrupting illegal activities. Through collaboration and information gathering, an intelligence system is being implemented to enhance our law strengthening and effective judicial monitoring efforts.

Technology and Infrastructure

A communications and technology network is being established to cover the entire site, and all information will be centralised and monitored 24 hours a day at the operations coordination centre. A 190 km perimeter fence, 150 km of roads, an operational base and staff quarters have also been construction.

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